It's a Marathon, Not a Sprint

Tits McGee

One is (So Not) the Loneliest Number

Full disclosure: Not all of the performers in Beardmageddon have beards. In fact, only one of them, Jason Groce, has facial hair. But he has enough to make up for the silky smooth complexions of Greg Tavares, Brandy Sullivan, and Jessica Mickey.

Sponsored and co-conceived by the S.C. Federal Credit Union, Beardmageddon 2.0 is the sequel to last year's hit one-hour improv gameshow. "It's a night of celebration for beards of all kinds," says Darryl LaPlante, spokesperson for Young and Free S.C. for the SC Federal Credit Union. "There are no assigned roles in this show, and that's the great thing about improv: the actors can be whoever they want and do whatever they want for a short period of time. Hilarity always ensues."

Once again, the reliably ridiculous Theatre 99 crew will host several games, including ones involving audience participation during which a lucky attendee will be interviewed. The cast will then do several scenes inspired by that person. "It's the kind of show that really brings everybody in it together," Sullivan says.

Theatre 99, a Charleston favorite since 1995, is known for producing short and sweet comedy, and Beardmageddon 2.0 will be the only short-form show at the festival. But what really differentiates the show from the rest of the fest is this foursome and the randomness they'll undoubtedly bring. "Every time you come to Theatre 99," Sullivan says, "it's like the first time."

Want to go for free? Young and Free S.C., the S.C. Federal Credit Union's voice for the under-25 set, wants you to send in your favorite joke for a chance to win. See youngfreesc.com for more info. The drawing is on January 16. —Kelly Smith